Phaidon Publishes Korean Feminist Art Anthology Amid Growing Recognition of Women Artists
In 2024, Phaidon Press released an anthology titled 'Korean Feminist Artists: Confront and Deconstruct,' highlighting the work of 42 female artists. Authored by art historian Kim Hong-hee, this book stems from her monthly columns in the progressive newspaper Kyunghyang Shinmun. It’s filled with vibrant illustrations and explores the diverse feminist narratives emerging in Korea. The book's release in late 2024 coincided with significant exhibitions that celebrated women artists across Korea and Asia. For instance, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art showcased 'Connecting Bodies: Asian Women Artists,' which emphasized how artists are using their bodies to challenge patriarchal standards. At the same time, two exhibitions at the Seoul Museum of Art examined the evolution of feminist art in Korea, highlighting the increasing acknowledgment of women’s contributions in the art scene despite existing gender disparities.
Key facts
- The book 'Korean Feminist Artists: Confront and Deconstruct' was published in 2024 by Phaidon Press
- Author Kim Hong-hee is an art historian and curator
- The book features 42 women artists and explores Korea's feminist polyphony
- The publication originated from columns commissioned by Kyunghyang Shinmun newspaper
- South Korea ranks poorly in global gender equality comparisons
- The Korean art scene is increasingly dominated by women artists and professionals
- The book's release coincided with exhibitions at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea and Seoul Museum of Art
- Neo-Confucian social codes in South Korea normalize misogyny and demonize feminist ideology
Entities
Artists
- Kim Hong-hee
- Lee Bul
- Haegue Yang
- Ayoung Kim
- Mire Lee
Institutions
- Phaidon Press
- Kyunghyang Shinmun
- National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea
- Seoul Museum of Art
Locations
- London
- South Korea
- Seoul